Plantar Fasciitis is a condition of the foot that affects millions of people globally every year. It can range from mild and uncomfortable to severe and sometimes debilitating. In this article, we will explain how chiropractic care can help with this condition. 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

At the bottom of the foot is a thick band of connected fibers which run from the heel to the toes, and is referred to as the plantar fascia. The role of these fibers is to help support the arch of the foot. When this connective tissue becomes inflamed, it is then referred to as plantar fasciitis. 

What causes Plantar Fasciitis?

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is repetitive motion trauma to the plantar fascia. This means walking too much without the proper shoes, or shoe inserts, causing micro-tears to the fascia. Those tears then cause inflammation and pain across the bottom of the foot.  

How does it affect the back and body?

When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed it causes quite a lot of pain across the bottom of the foot. It is often described as “like walking on broken glass.” A sharp, stabbing, and sometimes debilitating pain.  This is typically worse in the morning and during prolonged periods of standing and walking. Because of this pain, it forces people to walk differently, which can then lead to knee, hip, and even back problems.  Since the foot is no longer stable, this also means the back is no longer stable. This can lead to altered curves in the spine which then end up pinching nerves, most commonly those in the lower back. 

What are some treatment options for Plantar Fasciitis?

Treatment options for plantar fasciitis often include some form of stretching exercises. Most of these focus on the calf muscles and of course plantar fascia. Other treatments include the use of ice, ultrasound therapy, and in some cases non-steroidal medications. Sometimes the shoes you wear also need to be addressed and the inserts within them as well to make sure they aren’t contributing towards the problem. You should see your doctor to see which option is best for you.

How can chiropractors help with Plantar Fasciitis?

Chiropractors have been thoroughly trained in treating not only conditions of the back and neck, but of the extremities as well. As such, they can give excellent advice on proper stretching and at-home remedies to help with conditions such as plantar fasciitis. They may also be able to point you in the right direction for the type of shoe and shoe insert you should be using. If you or someone you know suffers from plantar fasciitis, don’t hesitate to give us a call and see how we can help! (757) 473-9900

To assist patients with Plantar fasciitis and or heel spurs we can use a new therapy.  Laser therapy is great.  It delivers red and infrared wavelengths of laser light.  This helps the body heal.  The light increased the production of ATP.  Laser energy increases circulation, reduces swelling, and decreases pain and muscle spasms.